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Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS)

Stephen Meriney, a professor of neuroscience and psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh, will conduct experiments in cells and mice to test a drug that may be beneficial in Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS).

Jacobus Pharmaceutical of Princeton, N.J., is continuing its placebo-controlled trial of 3,4-diaminopyridine (3,4-DAP) for people with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) who have been receiving the drug through Jacbobus' "expanded access" (also called "compassionate use") program. The study, which began in January 2012, was originally by invitation only.

In its summer 2013 round of research grant awards, the Muscular Dystrophy Association aims to catalyze research progress in a dozen neuromuscular diseases, with an eye toward applying that knowledge to related muscle diseases, as well.

“A large number of our grants are investigating new therapeutic technologies,” notes Jane Larkindale, MDA's vice president of research. “These are 'platform' technologies, where successes can be transferred well beyond the specific disease in which they are developed and tested.”

Turning neuromuscular disease research into treatments as quickly and effectively as possible was the overarching theme of dozens of formal presentations, nearly 200 scientific posters, and countless informal conversations at the MDA Scientific Conference, April 21-24.

A palpable sense of excitement pervaded the sold-out event thanks to the unprecedented number of experimental treatments in clinical trials for neuromuscular diseases, and the unique opportunity the conference provided for information-sharing and collaboration among scientific professionals from many disciplines.

MDA awarded a research grant totaling $336,503 to William Atchison, professor of pharmacology/toxicology and acting dean for research at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine in East Lansing. The funds will support Atchison's research into the biological mechanisms underlying Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS).

The Muscular Dystrophy Association has awarded 40 research grants totaling $13.7 million to advance the understanding of disease processes and uncover new strategies for treatments and cures of muscular dystrophy and the more than 40 other diseases in the Association's program.

The new grants were recommended by MDA's Scientific and Medical Advisory Committees and approved by MDA's Board of Directors at its July 2011 meeting.